5 Reasons to Add Maca to Your Diet
Fertility issues in both men and women are often caused by hormonal imbalances. While there may also be other factors at play, restoring hormonal balance can be an effective way to overcome infertility. One effective way to do this is through the use of maca root.
What is Maca?
Sometimes referred to as “Peruvian Ginseng,” maca is a tuber that Peruvian natives ate cooked, raw or boiled. At the time, the tuber was a staple in their diet as the terrain was rough and gathering food was difficult. The natives relied on wild gathered food, and maca was a nourishing choice.
Maca root looks like a radish, and the two are actually close relatives. The tuber can only thrive in the Andes at an elevation of 12,000-15,000 feet above sea level.
As you can see, maca is a special plant. But what makes it such a great herb for fertility?
1. Maca Balances Hormones
Maca is renowned for its ability to help balance hormones and actually reverse hypothyroidism. The root itself doesn’t contain any hormones, but rather acts as an endocrine adaptogen. What this means is that the root contains all of the necessary nutrients to help support healthy, natural hormone production.
The combination of nutrients in maca helps nourish the hypothalamus and the pituitary glands – both of which are “master glands” in the body. These master glands regulate other glands. When properly balanced, they help restore balance to the pancreas, adrenal, testicular, ovarian and thyroid glands.
Maca root for women, in particular, is beneficial and can help prevent hormonal issues, such as menopause, PMS and even hot flashes.
2. Maca is Rich in Fertility-Supporting Nutrients
Maca root is naturally high in minerals, including potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc and phosphorous. It also contains 20 essential fatty acids, sterols, fiber, lipids, protein, carbohydrates and amino acids.
3. Maca Gets You in the Mood
When hormonal imbalances get in the way, it can be difficult to get in the mood. Maca acts as a natural aphrodisiac to improve your libido. The sterols inside of the root are believed to block estrogen production and boost testosterone.
And because it’s rich in vital minerals, like iodine, zinc and essential fatty acids, the root helps balance sex hormones.
If low libido is an issue for you or your partner, maca can help get you back in the mood.
4. Improves Sperm Counts and Regulates Cycles
Some studies have shown that maca helps boost sperm count and motility, which makes it easier to get pregnant. It also restores cycle regularity, so women ovulate and menstruate regularly.
Cycle regulation and improved sperm activity will make it much easier for you and your partner to get pregnant.
5. It’s Easy to Take and Inexpensive
When compared to fertility treatments, maca is inexpensive and very easy to take. One quick search online for “maca powder fertility,” and you’re sure to find plenty of reputable outlets that sell maca supplements. Local health food stores should carry maca powder, too.
Maca is also available in capsule form, although the capsules are a little more costly than the powder.
Does Maca Root Work?
One of the first questions couples ask before taking this herb is: does maca work? Yes!
Maca works internally by restoring proper hormonal balance. But keep in mind that results are guaranteed. If the fertility issue is not related to a hormonal imbalance, maca may not help improve fertility for you. It’s also important to remember that this herb will take some time to work.
Maca root has been used for centuries as a natural fertility aid and aphrodisiac. Loaded with vital nutrients and minerals, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain by adding this herb to your diet.
